Kansas Kid Named National CMN Hospitals Champion

Each year, CMN Hospitals at Ascension Via Christi recognize children who have received medical, financial or other assistance as provided through local CMN programs.  This year, our very own Kansas champion was selected to represent CMN Hospitals – NATIONALLY!!  Meet Vinny, the strong, handsome, 12-year-old who lights up the pediatric unit at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis as soon as he walks through the door.

Every day Vinny woke up, he was ready to go.  He had so much energy and the brightest smile you ever did see.  He loved superheroes, spending time with mom and dad and normal kid stuff.  Then it happened. At age 7, Vinny was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis, a disease that causes mucus build up in the lungs.  From that day forward, his family had to figure out how they were going to take care of Vinny knowing that this diagnosis could be fatal.  Vinny had to change his whole routine.  His condition required special treatments to ensure his lungs stayed clear and a percussion vest was the best option.  But at a significant out-of-pocket cost, Amanda and Matt didn’t know how it would all work out.  Then CMN stepped in and helped purchase Vinny’s vest.  Ever since then, Vinny has been able to complete his vest treatment twice a day and lives his best life dreaming of creating comics for Marvel.  Now he’ll be doing it all representing Kansas as a CMN Hospitals National Champion!